Project Summary

Client	Metclad
Project	Unite Brass Founders
Location	Sheffield
Sector	Student Accommodation Construction
Product Used	Protectapeel GlassDefend
Project Value	£38m

Key Figures

• 1,200m² — of glass and frames protected
• 437 — student rooms delivered
• £38m — development value
• 24 months — internal protection capability

Project Overview

The Unite Brass Founders development in Sheffield was a £38m student accommodation scheme that transformed a historic former foundry into modern living space. Delivering 437 student rooms in the heart of the city, the project combined heritage architecture with contemporary construction. With extensive glazing and framing systems installed across the development, Metclad required a reliable temporary protection solution to preserve surface quality throughout the build.

The Challenge

On active construction sites, installed glass and frame systems are exposed to multiple risks before project completion. At Unite Brass Founders, these included scratches from ongoing site activity, weld spatter, dust and debris contamination, and paint or mortar overspray. Protecting these finished surfaces was essential to avoid damage, reduce rework, and maintain the high visual standard required for a development that blended historic features with new materials.

The Solution

Following a successful on-site demonstration, Metclad selected Protectapeel GlassDefend as the temporary protective coating for the project’s glazing and frames. The spray-applied peelable coating created a durable barrier across the installed surfaces, helping shield them from scratches, dirt, and construction-related contamination. Quick to apply and designed for clean removal, GlassDefend supported efficient protection across multiple areas while maintaining performance throughout the construction process.

Technical Information

Product	Protectapeel GlassDefend
Suitable Surfaces	Glass, aluminium, PVCu, acrylic, stainless steel, painted aluminium, and polished concrete
Protection Duration	Up to 24 months internally
Application Method	Spray-applied temporary peelable coating
Removal	Residue-free peel
Fire Classification	BS 476: Part 7 1997 Class 1

Key Benefits

• Easy and efficient spray application
• Protects against scratches and surface damage
• Helps prevent contamination from dust, debris, paint, and mortar
• Durable protection maintained during construction
• Peels away cleanly without residue

Product Used

Protectapeel GlassDefend is a temporary peelable coating design to protect surfaces such as; glass, aluminium, PVCu, acrylic, stainless steel, painted aluminium, and polished concrete internally for up to 24 months.

 

We protected 1,200m² of glass and frames. I was really impressed with the product and the overall customer service.

Josh Gardner, Metclad

Results

• 1,200m² of glass and frames protected on-site
• Reduced risk of damage and costly rework
• Improved efficiency during installation and finishing stages
• Positive feedback from the installation team on both product performance and service

Conclusion

At Unite Brass Founders, Protectapeel GlassDefend gave Metclad an effective and efficient way to protect high-value glazing and frame systems during construction. By reducing the risk of surface damage and supporting a cleaner, more streamlined installation process, the solution helped preserve finish quality on a landmark regeneration project. The result reflects Spraylat International’s focus on innovative, high-performance surface protection that improves project outcomes while reducing unnecessary waste and rework.